Brandon Twp.- Students will see a new face in school this year.
Eric Overall isn’t exactly the new kid. As an Oakland County Sheriff’s Office deputy for 19 years, he’s been around the block. But after four years on the midnight patrol shift in the township, he has moved into the position of school liaison officer.
‘The hours are great and good for family life,? said Overall. ‘Brandon is a great place to work…the people are great here? we have our problems, but all in all, it’s a good area.?
Overall replaces former school liaison officer Ken Alderman, who has been reassigned. The position is not an entirely new one for Overall. Before coming to Brandon, he was school liaison officer at Walled Lake Central High School for six years. He is excited to return to the school environment.
‘I like mentoring the kids, working with the school staff, and promoting safety,? Overall said. ‘It’s not all about fighting crime in the schools, but prevention and mentoring to help the kids become great citizens.?
In addition to handling crimes perpetrated both by and against students and preventing such crimes, Overall also plans to work with the district in updating and implementing emergency response drills and lockdown procedures.
Substance abuse and negative internet influences are two areas parents should be aware, said Overall, and for which he is prepared to provide assistance.
‘Kids today are hit with so much peer pressure,? he said. ‘My biggest thing is, I want to be there as a resource for the community and kids. Parents, if you have a problem and need counseling help or a referral, come see me. I’m here to help. I want the kids to feel safe, comfortable, and that I’m a person they can confide in if they have problems… A lot of times kids feel alone and it’s weird to think a cop can be that person they confide in, but if you are feeling bullied or harassed, I have an open door policy and that is what I am here for.?